Château La Chenade 2021

Château La Chenade is produced in the appellation of Lalande-de-Pomerol, on the right bank of Bordeaux next to Pomerol itself. The wine was created by Denis Durantou, who also ran Château l'Église-Clinet, and since his death the estate has been in the hands of his daughters alongside winemaker Olivier Gautrat. It blends Merlot with Cabernet Franc grown on the clay, gravel and iron-rich soils typical of the sector, where the water-retaining clay slows ripening and gives Merlot its fleshy weight while Cabernet Franc adds red-fruited lift and a leafy, savoury edge. The wine ages twelve months in barrel, the oak allowing gentle oxygenation that firms the tannins and adds a fine cedar and spice frame, while malolactic fermentation softens the acidity into a rounder shape. It is deep ruby, with aromas of plum, cherry and red berries over cocoa and a leathery, savoury depth. The palate is medium to full, with supple tannins and a spiced, earthy finish. Serve at 17 degrees and decant before pouring. A good match for roast and braised red meats, game birds and mushrooms.